Course Descriptions

Search by Course Title or Course Code

BIB 500 - Introduction to Biblical Studies 2 Credits

An introduction to biblical studies in the seminary setting, designed to deepen the student’s overall understanding of the biblical literature and to provide an orientation to the disciplines of graduate-level biblical research. The course includes an overview of the documents of Christian Scripture, considering structure, content, major themes, literary forms, chronology, first century historical-cultural setting, composition, and canonical interrelationship. It also exposes the student to key issues and prominent schools of thought in biblical research, and seeks to enhance the student’s own competence in the skills of biblical study.

BIB 505 - Biblical Interpretation 3 Credits

This course focuses on the development of a systematic approach to the interpretation of Scripture. Although reference is made to various interpretative systems and strategies, special attention is given to the historical-grammatical method. The predominant literary genres of the Bible are examined and relevant principles of interpretation highlighted. Emphasis is placed on understanding the original, intended meaning of Scripture in its canonical context as the basis upon which to prepare expositions and make appropriate contemporary applications.

BIB 520 - Old Testament Foundations 3 Credits

This course will involve an introductory survey of the books of the Old Testament as part of a narrative theological investigation of this “first testament” for the Christian. It will include the study of key passages and theological themes, and practical experience in doing Old Testament theology.

BIB 520 - Old Testament Foundations 3 Credits

This course will involve an introductory survey of the books of the Old Testament as part of a narrative theological investigation of this “first testament” for the Christian. It will include the study of key passages and theological themes, and practical experience in doing Old Testament theology.

BIB 540 - New Testament Foundations 3 Credits

This course provides an introductory survey to the New Testament and its social and canonical settings. It will engage in a study of the major themes and theological expressions of the New Testament documents in the context of their historical development, listening for both commonalities and distinctives in theological expression, with a concern for communicating their message to contemporary culture.

BIB 620 - Old Testament Theology 3 Credits

A survey of various approaches to Old Testament theological investigation, analysis of key passages and themes in the Hebrew Scriptures, and practical experience in doing Old Testament theology, all with a view to exploring the enduring significance of this first testament.

BIB 640 - New Testament Theology 3 Credits

Various issues related to the nature of New Testament Theology are considered and concerns related to topical/thematic and author/strata approaches are discussed. The theologies of the NT documents and collections are explored in the context of their historical development for the themes, motifs and concepts that are their common and distinctive contribution to the theology of the NT.

BIB 660 - Exploring Septuagint Origins and Texts 3 Credits

An introduction to the Old Greek version of the Jewish Scriptures. The course involves reading of selected Greek texts and English translations of the Septuagint as well as other sources that elucidate the history and influence of this important version of the Scriptures. Key issues and problems in the field of Septuagint studies will also be investigated. Prerequisites: BNT 601, BOT 501

BIB 691 - Exegeting the LXX Psalms 3 Credits

Septuagint Studies is a burgeoning field of research that has seen the recent publication of modern language translations, lexica, and monographs on a wide range of topics. A major project currently underway is the Society of Biblical Literature Commentary on the Septuagint (SBLCS). The commentary is genetic, in the sense that it seeks to trace the translation process that resulted in the product, i.e., the so-called original text of the Old Greek. Students will be introduced to the foundational principles of the SBLCS project, and the methodological tools requisite to writing a philological commentary on the Greek text, with specific reference to the Old Greek Psalter.

BIB 692 - The Septuagint, Translation & Jewish Scribalism 3 Credits

This course will examine the Septuagint, Translation & Jewish Scribalism.